And these were not newly-frum brides, either. They were hardened kosher consumers with an average age of around 50-plus.

The KCO had invited its members to come and talk tachlis about kosher consumer issues.

The Union of Orthodox Synagogues (UOS) hosted the discussion at which Sevitz gave a talk and took questions. And, if anyone in SA can answer consumer-related questions about kashrut, it is UOS executive director Darren Sevitz.

The meeting took place in a positive and cordial environment. One questioner did get slightly aggressive, but Darren maintained a calm approach and dealt with their issue professionally.

The invitation from the KCO had billed this as a “unique opportunity to have all your kosher consumer questions answered.” Sevitz spoke on kashrut in general, and the role played by the UOS.

The numbers were disappointing, Darren Sevitz told MyShtetl afterwards. “But I think it shows the general apathy of the kosher consumer,” who, he says, are “quick to complain, but when given an opportunity to have all their questions and issues dealt with, there is no show.”

People missed out, but the door is always open

Sevitz was disappointed at the turnout. “Many people work, but many don’t,” he said. “I think they missed out.”

However, as Darren says, “I am always available to speak to people or deal with their concerns. My email address is public and I am happy to deal with anybody’s issues.”

What the consumers found most interesting...

People were very interested to find out about “the structure of the UOS and all the work that we do, said Sevitz afterwards.

“People were surprised to hear that the Office of the Chief Rabbi is a part of the UOS and not an independent organisation.”

The consumers were also “impressed with the openness and transparency” of the UOS, says Sevitz. “I explained in detail how we charge for licence fees.”

Same old issues came up...

The price of meat and chicken was clearly the big question on everyone’s lips.

It came out strongly as the biggest issue concerning kosher consumers. “Even though I explained it,” says Darren, “there seems to be a disconnect between what is fact (i.e. the independent report), and emotion.”

Darren explained in detail what the UOS’ fees are and how they are passed on to the consumer.

Some interesting issues that came up...

Another issue that required clarification for the consumers was the difference between a ‘factory,’ which doesn’t require full time supervision, and an ‘establishment,’ which does.

Another was: “Can the Beth Din intervene to get cheaper prices from suppliers?”

And, once again: “Why is a chicken carcass so expensive?”